Becoming a Patient in Nevada

Summary

To become a medical cannabis patient in Nevada, a person must be diagnosed with a chronic or debilitating condition and reside in Nevada. Patients must register with the state to receive protection from prosecution and may otherwise assert an affirmative defense in court.

What’s Allowed

Registered patients may legally possess up to 2 ½ ounces in a single 14-day period which they must purchase through the state licensed distribution system of dispensaries. Patients without a dispensary in their county are exempted from this requirement and may cultivate up to 12 plants or designate a primary caregiver to assist them.

Qualifying Conditions

Individuals applying to become a patient under SB 374 must be diagnosed with one of the following conditions:

AIDS

Cancer

Glaucoma

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Cachexia (wasting and malnutrition associated with chronic disease)

Persistent Muscle Spasms (including Multiple Sclerosis)

Seizures (including Epilepsy)

Severe Nausea

Severe Pain

Additional conditions specifically approved by the Department of Health and Human Services

Limitations and Protections under the Law

Patients and caregivers are exempt from arrest and prosecution for conduct allowed under the law, such as purchasing and possessing medical cannabis acquired from a state-licensed dispensary. Patients who exceed possession amounts and/or do not participate in state-run registry are subject to prosecution, but are entitled to present a medical necessity defense in court.

Possession, Growing, and Consumption Limitations

Patients and caregivers may obtain, possess, and administer medical cannabis acquired from a licensed dispensary under the law. Patients are allowed to possess up to 2 ½ ounces of medical cannabis in a single 14-day period. Patients and caregivers are not allowed to cultivate medical cannabis for the patient, unless they lack access to a dispensary, which is defined by a lack of at least one dispensary in the patient's county. individuals without access to a dispensary may cultivate medical cannabis for themselves or a patient in their care. The limit is seven plants (three of which may be mature).

Access to Medical Marijuana

Patients may only legally obtain cannabis from dispensaries licensed by the state. Patients without dispensary in their county may cultivate their own medical cannabis.

Caregivers

Caregivers must apply through the state through a process similar to the one for patients. Caregivers for a minor must complete an additional form.

Nevada's medical marijuana law does not include civil discrimination protection in the areas of housing, employment, child custody, and organ transplants.

Out of State patients

Cardholders from other states may purchase medical cannabis from a licensed Nevada dispensary providing. Non-resident patients must present a valid state-issued patient ID card in order to have access to dispensaries in Nevada.